Search results for "Practical planning" in Home Design Ideas

1950's mid-century modern beach house built by architect Richard Leitch in Carpinteria, California. Leitch built two one-story adjacent homes on the property which made for the perfect space to share seaside with family. In 2016, Emily restored the homes with a goal of melding past and present. Emily kept the beloved simple mid-century atmosphere while enhancing it with interiors that were beachy and fun yet durable and practical. The project also required complete re-landscaping by adding a variety of beautiful grasses and drought tolerant plants, extensive decking, fire pits, and repaving the driveway with cement and brick.

Mid-sized trendy master double-sink bathroom photo in Atlanta with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, an undermount sink, marble countertops, beige countertops and a floating vanity

Open concept kitchen - large traditional galley light wood floor open concept kitchen idea in Other with an undermount sink, beaded inset cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula
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A former summer camp, this site came with a unique set of challenges. An existing 1200 square foot cabin was perched on the shore of Thorndike Pond, well within the current required setbacks. Three additional outbuildings were part of the property, each of them small and non-conforming. By limiting reconstruction to the existing footprints we were able to gain planning consent to rebuild each structure. A full second story added much needed space to the main house. Two of the outbuildings have been rebuilt to accommodate guests, maintaining the spirit of the original camp. Black stained exteriors help the buildings blend into the landscape.
The project is a collaboration with Spazio Rosso Interiors.
Photos by Sean Litchfield.

stNatural, calm, family-centered. This client knew what she wanted and just needed some assistance getting there. Susan helped her out with imagery and product research, a first floor furniture plan and several working meetings to nail down the built-in functionality and look in the dining-room-turned-office/family drop-zone. Cork floors installed throughout give the home a warm and eco-friendly foundation. Pine-cones, tree trunk cookies, plants and lots of unstained wood make the family's focus on nature clear. The result: a beautiful and light-filled but relaxed and practical family space.
Carpenter/Contractor: Sam Dennis
From the client: We hired Susan to assist with a downstairs remodel. She brings a personalization that feels like getting advice from a family member at the same time adding helpful details of her industry knowledge. Her flexibly in work style allows her to come with plans fully researched and developed or to advise, plan and draw on the spot. She has been willing to do as much as we needed or to let us roll with our own ideas and time frame and consult with her as needed.

Transforming this small bathroom into a wheelchair accessible retreat was no easy task. Incorporating unattractive grab bars and making them look seamless was the goal. A floating vanity / countertop allows for roll up accessibility and the live edge of the granite countertops make if feel luxurious. Double sinks for his and hers sides plus medicine cabinet storage helped for this minimal feel of neutrals and breathability. The barn door opens for wheelchair movement but can be closed for the perfect amount of privacy.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity.
The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions.
A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework.
The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old.
The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance.
While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance.
A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design.
Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022

Inspiration for a large transitional u-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor open concept kitchen remodel in DC Metro with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

Unique features and practical amenities are packed into a modest footprint in this one-story home plan. Columns lead to the cathedral great room, which is open to the island kitchen and dining room. The secondary bedrooms share a Jack-and-Jill bathroom and each enjoy private porch access. Designed for enjoying Mother Nature, a covered porch wraps the rear of the home plan, ending at the cozy screen porch with fireplace, skylights, and summer kitchen. The master suite includes an oversized walk-in closet and an incredible rotunda sitting room filled with windows.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Windsor II Modern Farmhouse in Columbia, South Carolina, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern elegance. Inspired by the popular Windsor plan, this layout maximizes spatial volume and natural light on the main level with soaring 10-foot ceilings. The open-concept first floor seamlessly connects the family room, dining area, and kitchen into an expansive heart of the home perfect for entertaining. To blend luxury with practicality, custom built-in shelving is integrated throughout the home, including a dedicated home office featuring organized open shelving paired with premium cabinetry.
For ultimate privacy, the luxurious first-floor owner’s retreat serves as a quiet main-level sanctuary. This primary suite offers abundant organization with two separate, oversized walk-in closets. The spa-like owner's bath is designed for a premium getaway experience, beautifully appointed with a contemporary freestanding soaking tub and a meticulously detailed custom tile shower.
Upstairs, 9-foot ceilings maintain an airy, elevated feel across an entertainment-focused second floor. The second-story loft features a show-stopping mini wet bar complete with a custom wine storage piece, serving as the perfect transition into the adjacent media room. Engineered for ultimate comfort, this space is designed as a cozy in-home theater featuring authentic tiered seating, ensuring there isn’t a bad seat in the house for family movie nights or weekend game days.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Windsor II Modern Farmhouse in Whitestown, Indiana, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern charm. Inspired by the popular Windsor plan, this layout maximizes spatial volume and natural light on the main level with soaring 10-foot ceilings. The open-concept first floor seamlessly connects the family room, dining area, and kitchen into an expansive heart of the home perfect for hosting gatherings. To blend luxury with practicality, custom built-in shelving is integrated throughout the home, including a dedicated home office featuring organized open shelving paired with premium cabinetry to keep the workspace immaculate.
For ultimate privacy, the luxurious first-floor owner’s retreat serves as a quiet main-level sanctuary. This primary suite offers abundant organization with two separate, oversized walk-in closets, ensuring no shortage of storage space. The spa-like owner's bath is designed for a premium getaway experience, beautifully appointed with a contemporary freestanding soaking tub and a meticulously detailed custom tile shower.
Upstairs, 9-foot ceilings maintain an airy, elevated feel across an entertainment-focused second floor. The second-story loft features a show-stopping mini wet bar complete with a custom wine storage piece, serving as the perfect transition into the adjacent media room. Engineered for ultimate comfort, this space is designed as a cozy in-home theater featuring authentic tiered seating, ensuring there isn’t a bad seat in the house for family movie nights or weekend game days.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Windsor II Modern Farmhouse in Whitestown, Indiana, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern charm. Inspired by the popular Windsor plan, this layout maximizes spatial volume and natural light on the main level with soaring 10-foot ceilings. The open-concept first floor seamlessly connects the family room, dining area, and kitchen into an expansive heart of the home perfect for hosting gatherings. To blend luxury with practicality, custom built-in shelving is integrated throughout the home, including a dedicated home office featuring organized open shelving paired with premium cabinetry to keep the workspace immaculate.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

This stunning new kitchen in St Albans blends bold design choices with practical family living, created in collaboration with interior designer Emma Kosh.
Featuring Schüller’s Sienna Matt Velvet cabinetry in Pale Rose and Onyx Black, the space delivers a striking contrast that feels both modern and luxurious. The pink tones bring a unique, personalised touch, while the deep black adds depth and sophistication.
Designed alongside Emma Kosh, the layout was tailored to suit a large, extended family, with an open-plan dining and living area that flows seamlessly for everyday use and entertaining. A dedicated breakfast unit and bar area create the perfect spot for morning coffees, casual meals, or evening drinks, adding both style and functionality.
The 20mm AG Carrara Q Quartz worktops, supplied by Algarve, bring a crisp, refined finish with beautiful marble-inspired veining. They are as durable as they are elegant, making them ideal for a busy family kitchen.
Premium appliances from Siemens, Blanco, and Quooker were chosen for their performance, reliability, and sleek design, ensuring the space works as hard as it looks good.
If you’re ready to create a kitchen that combines personality, practicality, and a true wow factor, get in touch—we’d love to help you design your dream space.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity.
The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions.
A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework.
The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old.
The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance.
While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance.
A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design.
Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Windsor II Modern Farmhouse in Columbia, South Carolina, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern elegance. Inspired by the popular Windsor plan, this layout maximizes spatial volume and natural light on the main level with soaring 10-foot ceilings. The open-concept first floor seamlessly connects the family room, dining area, and kitchen into an expansive heart of the home perfect for entertaining. To blend luxury with practicality, custom built-in shelving is integrated throughout the home, including a dedicated home office featuring organized open shelving paired with premium cabinetry.
For ultimate privacy, the luxurious first-floor owner’s retreat serves as a quiet main-level sanctuary. This primary suite offers abundant organization with two separate, oversized walk-in closets. The spa-like owner's bath is designed for a premium getaway experience, beautifully appointed with a contemporary freestanding soaking tub and a meticulously detailed custom tile shower.
Upstairs, 9-foot ceilings maintain an airy, elevated feel across an entertainment-focused second floor. The second-story loft features a show-stopping mini wet bar complete with a custom wine storage piece, serving as the perfect transition into the adjacent media room. Engineered for ultimate comfort, this space is designed as a cozy in-home theater featuring authentic tiered seating, ensuring there isn’t a bad seat in the house for family movie nights or weekend game days.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Windsor II Modern Farmhouse in Whitestown, Indiana, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern charm. Inspired by the popular Windsor plan, this layout maximizes spatial volume and natural light on the main level with soaring 10-foot ceilings. The open-concept first floor seamlessly connects the family room, dining area, and kitchen into an expansive heart of the home perfect for hosting gatherings. To blend luxury with practicality, custom built-in shelving is integrated throughout the home, including a dedicated home office featuring organized open shelving paired with premium cabinetry to keep the workspace immaculate.
For ultimate privacy, the luxurious first-floor owner’s retreat serves as a quiet main-level sanctuary. This primary suite offers abundant organization with two separate, oversized walk-in closets, ensuring no shortage of storage space. The spa-like owner's bath is designed for a premium getaway experience, beautifully appointed with a contemporary freestanding soaking tub and a meticulously detailed custom tile shower.
Upstairs, 9-foot ceilings maintain an airy, elevated feel across an entertainment-focused second floor. The second-story loft features a show-stopping mini wet bar complete with a custom wine storage piece, serving as the perfect transition into the adjacent media room. Engineered for ultimate comfort, this space is designed as a cozy in-home theater featuring authentic tiered seating, ensuring there isn’t a bad seat in the house for family movie nights or weekend game days.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Windsor II Modern Farmhouse in Whitestown, Indiana, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern charm. Inspired by the popular Windsor plan, this layout maximizes spatial volume and natural light on the main level with soaring 10-foot ceilings. The open-concept first floor seamlessly connects the family room, dining area, and kitchen into an expansive heart of the home perfect for hosting gatherings. To blend luxury with practicality, custom built-in shelving is integrated throughout the home, including a dedicated home office featuring organized open shelving paired with premium cabinetry to keep the workspace immaculate.
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